Cat's Bad Aim

STEVE DALE MY PET WORLD

Heart Murmur

February 20, 2006|Steve Dale

Dear Steve: Our 15-year-old cat is missing her litter box. This began after we went away for an extended period. The vet says there's no infection. We changed litters, then switched back to the first brand. Things are better now, but the cat still occasionally goes outside her box. We know she's very clean. Could she be uncomfortable by stepping over used cat litter? We scoop daily and change the litter once a week. -- M.B., Delray Beach

Dear M.B.: "I wonder if there was daily companionship for the cat when you went away," mused feline behavior consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett, from near Nashville, Tenn. "Certainly, the stress of family members being gone might create a litter box problem. Also, was there twice daily or even daily scooping at that time?"

Even if she has no urinary tract or kidney problem, this doesn't mean your kitty doesn't have some arthritis which could make stepping into and out of the box difficult. This could explain why on most days, your cat is fine using the box, while on others she takes a pass.

Johnson-Bennett, author of Think Like a Cat (Penguin Books, $16.95), says, "Try using a few low-sided litter boxes, or even better, use storage containers with low sides. These storage boxes are often roomier than standard litter boxes. Try a few of these boxes, one with the original litter, and a second box with the newer litter choice.

Dear Steve: My 14-year-old Lhaso apso was diagnosed with a heart murmur. He's on Lasix. Aside from coughing, he seems OK. The coughing occurs most often when he plays or after a long nap. What's the prognosis? -- E.J., Indianapolis, IN

Dear E.J.: Cardiac veterinarian Dr. Michael Luethym, of Northbrook, Ill., says considering your description, the age and breed of your pooch, it's likely his mitral valve is leaking. This can lead to an enlarging of the heart, which may or may not lead to congestive heart failure.

Chest X-rays should pinpoint the problem. If your dog is actually diagnosed with congestive heart failure, several medications can be tried. If your pet's big heart is pushing on his windpipe, there's no discomfort except an annoying, periodic cough. If the cough worsens, your vet can suggest a cough suppressant.